shelf life

noun

: the period of time during which a material may be stored and remain suitable for use
broadly : the period of time during which something lasts or remains popular

Examples of shelf life in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Look for the total number of colony-forming units (CFUs) listed by the expiration or use-by date to ensure the product delivers viable bacteria throughout its shelf life. Lindsay Curtis, Verywell Health, 30 Jan. 2025 The desiccant absorbs moisture, ensuring product performance is maintained for the validated shelf life. Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 24 Jan. 2025 They’re also typically refined further to strip them of any funky flavors and increase their shelf life and stability (more on this below). Erica Sloan, SELF, 13 Jan. 2025 Better yet, for the longest shelf life, store the seeds in the freezer or refrigerator. Annie Peterson, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for shelf life 

Word History

First Known Use

1927, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shelf life was in 1927

Dictionary Entries Near shelf life

Cite this Entry

“Shelf life.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shelf%20life. Accessed 2 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

shelf life

noun
: the period of time something may be stored and still be good enough to use

Medical Definition

shelf life

noun
: the period of time during which a material (as a food or drug) may be stored and remain suitable for use
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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